And while there’s no evidence that any one diet will cure asthma, a growing body of research suggests that certain foods can worsen inflammation, and therefore the severity of asthma, according to Meredith C. McCormack, MD, a professor of medicine and the director of the Johns Hopkins Asthma Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Baltimore.
“The clinical evidence for dietary changes as a primary treatment for asthma is still evolving, but there’s plenty of evidence that suggests a healthy diet is beneficial,” Dr. McCormack says.
Observational studies on diet and asthma have reported “protective” associations with fruits and vegetables and vitamin E, as well as with high fiber intake, and negative effects with processed meats and sugar-sweetened beverages. More research is needed to show how inflammation-promoting foods are directly linked to asthma, but researchers are looking into the ways that oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as imbalances in the gut microbiome, may play a role in asthma.
McCormack says that she works with her asthma patients to develop nutritional plans that alleviate asthma symptoms and support overall health.
Cassidy Gundersen, PhD, a nutritionist and the owner of Spiro Health and Wellness in Utah, says that she’s also worked with a number of people who were able to find long-lasting relief from asthma with dietary changes.
In addition to following a healthy diet, you might want to talk to your doctor about whether avoiding these five types of foods and drinks could help improve your asthma management. Remember, no dietary changes should be used in place of asthma treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Read the full article here
